The “Two-Word” Termination: Supporters Rally For Ousted Chicago Teacher

WEST CHICAGO, IL — In a case that has reignited the national debate over free speech and educator conduct, physical education teacher James Heidorn is speaking out for the first time since losing his career over a two-word social media post. On Sunday, February 15, 2026, Heidorn described the fallout from his “GO ICE” comment as “professionally and personally devastating.”

1. The Incident: “GO ICE”

The controversy began in late January 2026, when Heidorn responded to a Facebook news story about local police cooperating with federal immigration authorities.

• The Post: Heidorn wrote “GO ICE” on his personal page.
• The Backlash: In a district with a heavily Hispanic population, the post was quickly screenshotted and shared by local activists. Critics argued the comment created a “climate of fear” for undocumented students and their families.
• The Political Response: Illinois State Senator Karina Villa and West Chicago Mayor Daniel Bovey both condemned the remarks, with Bovey organizing a town-hall “listening session” where parents called the post “cruel” and “offensive.”

2. The Resignation Timeline

Heidorn’s departure from Gary Elementary was marked by confusion and intense administrative pressure:

1. Jan 22: Notified of an HR investigation; Heidorn briefly resigned but rescinded it hours later.
2. Jan 26: A public listening session was held with Spanish translators, further amplifying calls for his removal.
3. Late Jan: After a formal hearing and facing a “disruptive” environment, Heidorn resigned a second time.
4. Collateral Loss: The controversy also cost him a soccer coaching position at a nearby private school.

3. Heidorn’s Defense: “Support for Law Enforcement”

Speaking to Fox News Digital, Heidorn maintained that his words were a simple expression of support for law enforcement, not an attack on his students.

• Professional Toll: “I lost my career, my income, and the chance to close out my time with my students properly—no farewell, no goodbyes.”
• Personal Impact: He noted the “sleepless nights” and the grief of losing relationships built over 14 years of teaching.

4. The GoFundMe: “Beloved Teacher” Fund

Supporters launched a fundraiser to help Heidorn with legal fees and relocation costs.

• Organizer: Samantha Reuter.
• Current Total (as of Feb 16): Over $60,000 raised from 600+ donors toward a $100,000 goal.
• Top Donation: A single anonymous contribution of $25,000.
• Fund Description: The page describes him as a “positive role model” who was a victim of a “false narrative” and “public questioning of his character.”